3 Mistakes To Avoid When Installing A Heat Pump

There are many options available to you when it comes to heating your home. Heat pumps are becoming more popular among homeowners looking for HVAC systems capable of providing both heating and cooling services using a single appliance.

A heat pump pulls warm air from the outside environment during the cooler months and transfers the heat into your home. The heat from your interior living space is pumped out of your home during the warmer months to help maintain a cool interior. Heat pumps rely on electricity and refrigerant to complete the heat transfer process.

If you are thinking about making the switch to a heat pump in your home, it's critical that you work with an experienced HVAC technician to complete the installation process. Only HVAC technicians with experience installing heat pumps can avoid making simple mistakes that could have disastrous consequences over time.

1. Not Adding Enough Refrigerant

Refrigerant is used continually in a heat pump. Without an adequate supply of refrigerant, it's impossible for a heat pump to successfully transfer heat between the outside environment and your home's interior. When refrigerant levels are too low, your new heat pump won't perform as efficiently as it should. This puts added strain on the heat pump itself and could result in lasting damage.

Experienced HVAC technicians understand the vital relationship between heat pumps and refrigerants. You can rely on a reputable HVAC technician to add an adequate supply of refrigerant to your new heat pump during installation.

2. Not Repairing Leaking Air Ducts

Experienced HVAC technicians know that a heat pump can only work efficiently if the air ducts in your home are in good condition. Damaged or disconnected air ducts allow heated air to escape from your ductwork and into the building envelope of your home.

Leaking ducts can seriously compromise the performance of your heat pump. The heat pump will have to work harder to make up for the air that is lost in transit when heating your home. This puts undue strain on the heat pump and can cause your home's energy costs to skyrocket.

It's important that your air ducts are inspected prior to the installation of a heat pump. Any repairs that are needed should be performed prior to installation to ensure that your heat pump can operate as safely and efficiently as possible.

3. Not Investing in the Right Heat Pump

Heat pumps come in a wide range of sizes. It's important that you invest in the heat pump that is right for your home.

A heat pump that is too large for your living space will constantly short-cycle. Short cycling increases energy consumption and causes heat pumps to wear out prematurely. A heat pump that is too small for your home could struggle to maintain the right temperature. An undersized heat pump will constantly run, which can really cause your energy bill to skyrocket.

Experienced HVAC technicians can help you select the right heat pump for your home. These technicians are capable of examining the square footage of your home, the climate in which you live, and your preferred temperature settings to identify the heat pump that will best meet your needs. Quality installation begins with the selection of a good heat pump, so take your time when selecting the heat pump that you will install in your home.

Many mistakes can be made during the installation of a heating system, but opting to invest in a heat pump is not one of these mistakes. You can partner with a heating installation company to install a heat pump that will both heat and cool your home in the future.